2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Matrix. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 190 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Toyota Matrix (174 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
